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Floods in Thailand - October/November 2011

Funds allocated:US$ 350 000

Affected population:14 million

The emergency

In July 2011 Thailand was hit by cyclone Nok-Ten that caused high-level
precipitation in the northern parts of the country. This, coupled with seasonal
monsoon rain, caused a large amount of water to course through Thailand.
This resulted in large-scale flooding that affected 80% of the country, including
65 provinces and 14 million people. Over 800 deaths were recorded due to the
flood and a large number of people were displaced. It was one of the worst
disasters to hit the country.

People wading through flooded streets in Bangkok

Funds allocated

In August 2011, the national health sector of Thailand requested for the release
of the first tranche of SEARHEF amounting to 5.1 million THB (approximately
US$ 170 000). A second tranche of 5.35 million THB approximately US$ 180 000 was
requested in October 2011.

Boats in the streets ferrying people from one location to another to purchase food and get to dry locations.

How it made a difference

Access was one of the main issues
during the flood. Many
families stayed behind in
flooded homes making it
difficult for basic services
to reach the affected population.
Drowning was one of
the main causes for mortality
as many people ventured
into the water without proper
equipment or life-saving
gear. Access to and procurement
of essential drugs was
another issue faced by the
government as some manufacturing
units were flooded. The
SEARHEF allowed the government
to access funds quickly to address
these issues.

Funds were used to procure life jackets. Thirty-five
provinces were provided with 150 life jackets each. The provinces included not only those
flooded but also those that sent medical
teams to the flooded areas.
Fifteen thousand sets of basic first aid kits
were procured and delivered to affected
families via the mobile health units.
Boats were procured to allow access to health
care services by the affected population. The
boats were also used by mobile health units
to access those living in flooded areas.
The fund was used to procure essential drugs
that were lacking due to manufacturers
being flooded.

Outcome of prompt assistance from SEARHEF
Prompt provision of public health services such as disease surveillance,
procurement of appropriate medicines and supplies supported the proper
management of water-borne diseases. This support also contributed to
better preparedness of health facilities for similar future events